Located in the picturesque foothills of the Laguna Mountains, approximately 40 miles from the sandy shores of San Diego, Ramona, California unexpectedly serves as the backdrop for a remarkable rock ‘n’ roll clinic featuring one of the genre’s most talented yet underrated figures, Michael Monroe. This Finnish rock legend has consistently defied expectations over the past 45 years, showcasing his unique flair and style.

Currently touring under the banner of “Jet Propelled From Overseas to the USA,” this marks Monroe’s first venture into North America in nearly a decade. The tour kicked off in early April and will culminate this weekend with two highly anticipated sellout shows at the iconic Whisky a Go Go and the Rainbow Bar and Grill anniversary celebration on the famed Sunset Strip.

Monroe’s West Coast finale began at the historic Ramona Mainstage, a beautifully restored 1940s movie theater transformed into a vibrant live music venue at the dawn of the 21st century. Attendees can find captivating photos from the show and the complete set list further down the page.

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Although the crowd was far from capacity—an estimated 100 to 150 devoted fans attended the Wednesday evening concert—this did not deter Monroe from delivering a breathtaking, action-packed 90-minute performance. The show served as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary and transcendent appeal of rock ‘n’ roll, demonstrating its ability to captivate audiences regardless of size.

The intimate atmosphere of the venue made Monroe’s entrance all the more exhilarating as he kicked off with his 1989 hit “Dead, Jail or Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Clearly, the audience had been eagerly anticipating this moment, and Monroe met their expectations with fervor. He sang passionately while energetically bouncing across the stage, adorned in his striking embroidered red-and-black vest paired with skintight jeans. At times, he ventured into the audience, engaging with fans at tables and seamlessly returning to showcase his incredible skills on the harmonica and saxophone, even pausing to touch up his makeup with a compact mirror, humorously claiming, “It helps me sing better.”

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Monroe’s electrifying 21-song setlist featured a blend of his solo material, particularly focusing on tracks from his latest album, I Live Too Fast to Die Young!, alongside beloved Hanoi Rocks classics like “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” “Don’t You Ever Leave Me,” and “Motorvatin’.” The performance was accentuated by the dynamic interplay between his long-time guitarist Steve Conte (formerly of the New York Dolls) and Rich Jones, whose fiery riffs and solos added depth to the sound. Meanwhile, Todd Kerns, the talented bassist from Slash, contributed outstanding backing vocals, while drummer Karl “Rockfist” Rosqvist, who is also associated with Danzig, provided a robust rhythmic foundation, combining punk energy with hard rock precision.

In an alternate universe, Hanoi Rocks could have easily emerged as one of the most prominent bands of the 1980s, with Monroe being a household name. However, despite any bitterness he may feel regarding the twists of fate, he certainly displayed none of it at Ramona Mainstage. Whether there are two fans or 200,000 in attendance, Monroe remains committed to delivering high-energy performances, staying true to his rock ‘n’ roll roots even after more than 40 years in the music industry.

Michael Monroe Set List from April 9, 2025, at Ramona Mainstage
1. “Dead, Jail or Rock ‘n’ Roll”
2. “I Live Too Fast to Die Young”
3. “Murder the Summer of Love”
4. “Last Train to Tokyo”
5. “Young Drunks & Old Alcoholics”
6. “Man With No Eyes”
7. “Old King’s Road”
8. “Trick of the Wrist”
9. “’78”
10. “Ballad of the Lower East Side”
11. “Don’t You Ever Leave Me” (Hanoi Rocks)
12. “One Man Band”
13. “Horns and Halos”
14. “Boiler (Me Boiler ‘n’ Me)” (Hanoi Rocks)
15. “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” (Hanoi Rocks)
16. “Motorvatin'” (Hanoi Rocks)
17. “Hammersmith Palais” (Demolition 23)
18. “Malibu Beach Nightmare” (Hanoi Rocks)
19. “Up Around the Bend” (Creedence Clearwater Revival)
20. “Taxi Driver” (Hanoi Rocks)
21. “I Feel Alright / Radar Love” (The Stooges / Golden Earring)